Hey Teman-teman (friends)!
At this point I’ve spoken to most of you on the phone, but I wanted to reiterate a few points and post them up here for easy access and reference.
My biggest packing tip for you is PACK LIGHT! You will have to be able to carry all of your belongings; sometimes our journeys will be long and they will most definitely be hot and sweaty. It can be tempting to fill all the extra space you have in your bag, but really think about what things you need that you won’t be able to find in Indonesia, rather than the things you think would just be good to bring or have extra supplies of. Also, you will have the opportunity to hand wash your laundry each week so 1-2 weeks of clothing is sufficient to get you through our first month together. Then when we get to Yogyakarta, you will have opportunities to go to the markets and stores.
It’s also a good idea to pack light because our baggage weight allowances will change during our journey. Our international flight from the US to Indonesia allows two checked bags at 23 kg each, however we will be taking a second flight from Jakarta to Yogyakarta that only allows 1 checked bag of 20 kg. Both flights allow a 7 kg checked bag and a personal item. My advice is to MAXIMUM bring a hiking backpack as your checked piece and then if necessary, a small carry-on (like a small roll-on or hand bag) and a personal item (this can be a small backpack).
There are also a few items I’d like to mention that have changed their designation as “Mandatory” or “Recommended”.
As always, please let me know if you have any questions!
I’d like to leave you with my best packing tips for all explorers: Bring your curiosity, courage, and patience. A small smile goes a long way, but a big grin is worth the space it might take up in your backpack. You don’t need a lock for your heart. Leave your assumptions behind.
Keep your eyes peeled for another Yak post coming up with our itinerary for our first 6 weeks!